Driver situation at Ferrari

The announcement of deal by Spanish bank Santander to become a major sponsor at Ferrari for the next five years has led to a widespread speculation that Fernando Alonso will switch to Ferrari in near future. Although Ferrari are contracted with Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen for 2010, they are believed to be in contact with representatives of Finn to pay Kimi off for next year and release him. More on the reasons why Ferrari would like to release Kimi can be read here.

Monza is the place where Ferrari traditionally announce any major news regarding them. Massa is cleared by doctors to race in 2010 and with new signing Fisichella filling Massa’s shoes for time being, Ferrari have no dearth of drivers. Also, present is most succesful driver of all-time, Schumacher.

“We have two drivers, now three [with Giancarlo Fisichella], plus also we are close to having Michael [Schumacher], so we have a lot of drivers – this is not a problem for us now,” said di Montezemolo.

“I want to say it again, that the drivers are chosen by Ferrari and not by the sponsors.”

Most interesting thing about that quote is that it sounds like Luca still reckons they might get Michael back in a car.
Meanwhile, Raikkonen denied his win in Belgium had given Ferrari reasons to retain him next year, as he made it clear he is not going anywhere despite speculation about his future.

“I think they know what I can do from what I’ve done. The results sometimes don’t give you a true picture. I always say I’m not worried about my future. I have a contract, and it’s not going to change whether I’m last or first.

“Of course I want to win, it’s good for me and for the team, but for the future it makes no difference.